Follow the 5 fwy north to the 101, and then where the 101 intersects Sunset Blvd... That puts in the Hollywood area. You'd actually get off on Highland and turn left. On the corner of Highland & Hollywood Blvd. is the Highland Complex, where you will find Mann's Chinese Theater, Kodak Theater, shops, and across the street El Capitan (owned by Disney). It cost me $2 to park in the underground parking structure (turn right on Hollywood Blvd, go past Mann's Chinese Theater, & turn right again on the next street - you'll come to the entrance to the parking structure). From there, visit Mann's Theater, footprints, stars on the sidewalk etc., then go to the mall part & walk up the stairs all the way to the top -- you'll have a great view of the Hollywood sign & perfect spot for taking pictures.
Here's some pics of the Highland Complex .....
Mann's Chinese Theater
My cousin Arturo from Spain -- They've seen a lot of westerns.
Entering the complex area -- to the left is the Renaissance Hotel (with a view of the Hollywood sign on one side from your room)
Bigger Picture
View looking back down the complex with El Capitan Theater in the background.
View of the Hollywood sign from the Highland Complex